Many hair enthusiasts are constantly seeking ways to maintain their vibrant hair color or experiment with new shades without causing damage. oVertone, a brand known for its color-depositing conditioners, has become a popular choice. But a common question arises: can you use oVertone on colored hair? The short answer is yes, but let’s delve into the nuances to ensure you achieve the best results.
Understanding oVertone and Its Purpose
oVertone products are designed to deposit color onto the hair shaft, either to enhance existing color or to add a new tint. Unlike traditional dyes, oVertone conditioners are formulated without harsh chemicals like ammonia or peroxide. This makes them a gentler alternative for maintaining or refreshing color between salon visits. The primary function of oVertone is to deposit pigment; it doesn’t lift or lighten your existing hair color.
The Science Behind Color-Depositing Conditioners
Color-depositing conditioners work by coating the hair shaft with pigment. The positively charged color molecules are attracted to the negatively charged hair fibers, resulting in a temporary color change. Because these conditioners don’t penetrate the hair cuticle deeply, the color gradually washes out over several shampoos.
Different oVertone Product Lines
oVertone offers a range of products, each designed for specific purposes. These include:
- Daily Conditioners: Used regularly to maintain color vibrancy and prevent fading.
- Deep Treatment Conditioners: Offer more intense color deposit and conditioning benefits.
- Coloring Conditioners: Designed to provide a more noticeable color change in a single application.
Using oVertone on Already-Colored Hair: A Detailed Look
Using oVertone on colored hair can be a fantastic way to maintain vibrancy, correct unwanted tones, or even subtly shift your existing color. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Enhancing Existing Color
If you’re looking to boost your current hair color, oVertone can be a great solution. Choose a shade that closely matches your existing color to refresh and intensify the pigment. For example, if you have red hair, using oVertone’s red conditioners can help prevent fading and keep your color looking vibrant. The key is to select a color that’s within the same family as your current shade.
Correcting Unwanted Tones
Sometimes, colored hair can develop unwanted tones, such as brassiness in blonde hair or a greenish tinge in brown hair. oVertone offers products that can help neutralize these tones. For example, purple oVertone can counteract brassiness in blonde or silver hair, while green oVertone can help neutralize red tones in brown hair. Understanding color theory is crucial when using oVertone for color correction.
Experimenting with Subtle Color Shifts
While oVertone doesn’t lift color, it can be used to create subtle color shifts. For instance, if you have light brown hair, you might use a red or purple oVertone to add warm or cool undertones. However, the results will be most noticeable on lighter shades of colored hair. Remember that the darker your starting color, the less dramatic the color shift will be.
Consider Your Hair’s Porosity
Hair porosity refers to its ability to absorb and retain moisture and color. High porosity hair absorbs color quickly but also loses it quickly. Low porosity hair is more resistant to absorbing color, so it may require more applications or longer processing times. Knowing your hair’s porosity is vital for predicting how well oVertone will work for you.
Choosing the Right oVertone Shade for Your Colored Hair
Selecting the correct oVertone shade is crucial for achieving your desired results. Consider these factors when making your selection.
Match the Underlying Tone
When choosing an oVertone shade, consider the underlying tone of your colored hair. Cool-toned hair will benefit from cool-toned oVertone shades, while warm-toned hair will benefit from warm-toned shades. Mixing warm and cool tones can lead to unpredictable results.
Consider the Intensity Level
oVertone offers different intensity levels, ranging from pastel to vibrant. If you’re looking for a subtle color boost, opt for a pastel or less intense shade. If you want a more dramatic color change, choose a vibrant or highly pigmented shade. Start with a less intense shade if you’re unsure, as you can always build up the color.
Read Reviews and See Examples
Before committing to a particular oVertone shade, read reviews and look for examples of how the color looks on similar hair colors. This can give you a better idea of what to expect. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube are great resources for finding real-life examples.
How to Apply oVertone on Colored Hair
The application process for oVertone is relatively straightforward, but following these steps will help you achieve the best results.
Prepare Your Hair
Start with clean, damp hair. Shampoo your hair and towel-dry it to remove excess water. Avoid using conditioner before applying oVertone, as this can create a barrier that prevents the color from depositing properly. Clean hair allows for better color absorption.
Apply the oVertone Conditioner
Apply the oVertone conditioner liberally, ensuring that all strands are evenly coated. Use gloves to protect your hands from staining. If you’re applying the conditioner to specific sections of your hair, use a color brush for precision. Even application is key to avoiding patchy results.
Process the Color
Leave the oVertone conditioner on your hair for the recommended processing time, which is typically 10-15 minutes for daily conditioners and 20-30 minutes for deep treatment and coloring conditioners. You can leave it on for longer if you want a more intense color, but be sure to do a strand test first to avoid over-pigmentation. Always follow the instructions on the product packaging.
Rinse and Condition
Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear. Avoid using shampoo, as this can strip the color. Follow up with a color-safe conditioner to help seal in the color and add moisture. Cool water helps to close the hair cuticle and lock in the color.
Tips for Maintaining Your oVertone Color on Colored Hair
Once you’ve achieved your desired color with oVertone, follow these tips to maintain its vibrancy and prevent fading.
Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Use shampoos and conditioners that are specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle and won’t strip the color from your hair. Sulfate-free shampoos are a good choice for preserving color.
Wash Your Hair Less Frequently
Washing your hair too often can cause the color to fade quickly. Try to extend the time between washes by using dry shampoo or other cleansing products. The less you wash your hair, the longer the color will last.
Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage your hair and cause the color to fade. If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from the heat. Heat can open the hair cuticle, allowing color to escape.
Protect Your Hair from the Sun
The sun’s UV rays can also cause hair color to fade. Wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection when you’re spending time outdoors. UV rays can break down the color molecules in your hair.
Use oVertone Regularly
To maintain your color vibrancy, use oVertone regularly as part of your hair care routine. The frequency will depend on your hair type, the intensity of the color, and how often you wash your hair. Regular use of oVertone helps to refresh and replenish the color.
Potential Issues and How to Avoid Them
While oVertone is generally safe and easy to use, there are a few potential issues to be aware of.
Uneven Color Deposit
Uneven color deposit can occur if the oVertone conditioner is not applied evenly or if your hair has different levels of porosity. To avoid this, ensure that you apply the conditioner liberally and evenly, and consider doing a strand test to assess your hair’s porosity. Pay close attention to the roots and ends of your hair, as these areas are often more porous.
Staining
oVertone can stain skin and clothing, so it’s important to take precautions to avoid staining. Wear gloves when applying the conditioner and protect your clothing with an old towel. If you do get oVertone on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water. Darker shades of oVertone are more likely to stain.
Over-Pigmentation
Over-pigmentation can occur if you leave the oVertone conditioner on for too long or if you use a shade that is too intense for your hair. To avoid this, always follow the instructions on the product packaging and do a strand test before applying the conditioner to your entire head. Start with a shorter processing time and gradually increase it if needed.
Incompatibility with Certain Hair Dyes
In rare cases, oVertone may react negatively with certain hair dyes. If you’ve recently dyed your hair, it’s best to wait a few weeks before using oVertone. You can also do a strand test to check for any adverse reactions. If you experience any irritation or unexpected results, discontinue use immediately.
oVertone vs. Traditional Hair Dye: Key Differences
It’s essential to understand the differences between oVertone and traditional hair dye to make an informed decision about which product is right for you.
Traditional hair dyes use chemicals like ammonia and peroxide to lift the hair’s cuticle and deposit color deep within the hair shaft. This results in a permanent or semi-permanent color change. However, these chemicals can also damage the hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. Traditional dyes offer a long-lasting color change but can be damaging to the hair.
oVertone, on the other hand, is a color-depositing conditioner that coats the hair shaft with pigment. It doesn’t lift the cuticle or cause any damage. The color gradually washes out over several shampoos, making it a temporary solution. oVertone is a gentler alternative to traditional dyes, but the color is not permanent.
Here’s a summary of the key differences:
- Ingredients: Traditional dyes contain ammonia and peroxide, while oVertone does not.
- Color Change: Traditional dyes offer a permanent or semi-permanent color change, while oVertone provides a temporary color change.
- Damage: Traditional dyes can damage the hair, while oVertone is generally safe and gentle.
- Maintenance: Traditional dyes require less frequent maintenance, while oVertone needs to be used regularly to maintain the color.
Is oVertone Right for You and Your Colored Hair?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use oVertone on your colored hair depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a gentle, temporary way to maintain or enhance your color, oVertone is a great option. However, if you’re looking for a permanent color change or a dramatic transformation, traditional hair dye may be a better choice.
Consider these factors when making your decision:
- Your Hair Type: If you have dry, damaged, or chemically treated hair, oVertone is a gentler alternative to traditional dyes.
- Your Color Goals: If you’re looking to maintain your existing color or experiment with subtle color shifts, oVertone is a good choice.
- Your Commitment Level: oVertone requires regular use to maintain the color, so be prepared to incorporate it into your hair care routine.
By understanding the benefits and limitations of oVertone, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right product for you and your colored hair. Remember to always do a strand test before applying any new product to your entire head, and follow the instructions on the product packaging carefully. With the right approach, you can achieve beautiful, vibrant color without causing damage to your hair.
Can oVertone cover or change my existing permanent hair color?
oVertone is designed to enhance or maintain colored hair, not to completely cover or drastically change it. While it can add vibrant tones and refresh faded color, oVertone is a color-depositing conditioner that works best on pre-lightened or already colored hair within a similar color family. Think of it as a booster or refresher rather than a permanent color replacement.
If you’re hoping to completely change your hair color with oVertone, especially going from a darker to a lighter shade, you’ll likely be disappointed. It lacks the lifting power of traditional hair dye. Instead, it’s perfect for adding a pop of color, maintaining vibrancy, and correcting unwanted tones in hair that’s already been professionally colored or lightened.
Will oVertone damage my colored hair?
One of the biggest benefits of oVertone is that it’s formulated to be incredibly gentle on hair. It’s a damage-free alternative to traditional hair dyes because it doesn’t contain ammonia, peroxide, or harsh chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils and proteins. Instead, it’s packed with nourishing ingredients that help hydrate and strengthen your strands.
Because oVertone is essentially a deep conditioning treatment with pigment, it can actually improve the health of your colored hair over time. The conditioning agents help to repair damage caused by previous coloring processes, leaving your hair feeling softer, smoother, and more vibrant. It’s a great way to add color without compromising the integrity of your hair.
How often can I use oVertone on my colored hair?
The frequency with which you can use oVertone depends on your hair’s condition and the desired intensity of color. Since it’s a conditioning treatment, you can use it as often as you would use a regular conditioner, typically once or twice a week. Using it more frequently will result in a more vibrant and longer-lasting color.
For those with dry or damaged colored hair, using oVertone every other wash can provide both color maintenance and essential hydration. If your hair is healthier and you want to maintain a subtle color boost, using it once a week might be sufficient. Experimenting will help you find the perfect balance for your individual hair needs and desired color intensity.
What oVertone colors are best for maintaining my specific hair color?
Choosing the right oVertone color is crucial for optimal results. If you have red hair, oVertone offers several shades of red and orange to maintain vibrancy and prevent fading. For blonde hair, there are options to brighten and tone, such as purple or blue to neutralize brassiness. For brown hair, consider warmer browns or even red tones to enrich the color and add depth.
Understanding the color wheel can also be helpful. If you’re trying to counteract unwanted tones, use the complementary color in oVertone. For instance, if your blonde hair has yellow tones, a purple oVertone conditioner can help neutralize them. Always check oVertone’s color guide and consider a strand test before applying all over to ensure you achieve your desired shade.
Can I mix oVertone colors to create a custom shade for my colored hair?
Yes, you absolutely can! Mixing oVertone colors is a fantastic way to achieve a custom shade that perfectly complements your existing hair color. This allows for endless possibilities and gives you complete control over the final result. Start with small amounts of each color and gradually increase the quantity until you reach your desired hue.
Before applying the custom mixture to your entire head, it’s crucial to perform a strand test. Apply the mixed color to a small, inconspicuous section of your hair and let it process for the recommended time. This will give you a preview of the final color and allow you to make any necessary adjustments before committing to a full application.
How long should I leave oVertone on my colored hair?
The processing time for oVertone depends on the desired intensity of color. For a subtle color boost, you can leave it on for just 3-5 minutes. This is a great option for refreshing your color between salon visits or when you want a more natural look.
For more vibrant and intense color, you can leave oVertone on for up to 15-20 minutes. This allows the pigments to fully penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in a deeper and longer-lasting color. Always start with a shorter processing time and gradually increase it until you achieve your desired level of intensity.
Will oVertone stain my clothes or shower?
oVertone can potentially stain clothing and shower surfaces, especially porous materials. To prevent staining, wear old clothing or a towel you don’t mind getting stained during application. Using gloves is also recommended to avoid staining your hands.
After rinsing, thoroughly clean your shower to remove any residual dye. Using a bleach-based cleaner can help remove any stubborn stains. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the vibrant results of oVertone without worrying about staining your clothes or bathroom.